Navigating the Government Shutdown for Fashion, Tech and Retail

The U.S. government shutdown has closed operations at several federal agencies â€”impacting fashion, tech and retail. ButÂ some government offices that provide services to entrepreneurs in fashion and tech remain open. Here’s a list of federal offices open for business during the shutdown.

U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), Commerce Department.Â The USPTO is open for business during the government shutdown, thanks to funding from prior-year user fees. For fashion and tech entrepreneurs in the Midwest, the USPTO will continue with its Trademark Tuesday event in Detroit on January 8, 2019.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Homeland Security Department.Â USCIS â€” responsible for reviewing and processing student and employment visas â€” is currently accepting petitions and applications. USCIS has advised that all individuals attend interviews and appointments as scheduled.

U.S. Postal Service (USPS). The Postal Service is also open for business. Though Congress has oversight of the Postal Service, USPS relies on the sale of postage and products to fund its operations. Many online retailers use the Postal Service to deliver packages to customers, as well as designers working with private clients. Even when a designer or retailer contracts with another delivery service, USPS may still end up delivering the item to the last mile.